Beginning in 1911, the Sturtevant Manufacturing Co. produced a number of engine models, all water cooled in-line vertical and V-types. Later absorbed into the family’s B.F. Sturtevant Co., which was a long time manufacturer of industrial fans; it was one of a number of early aircraft engine manufacturers whose products were very similar to automobile engines.
Unlike most of its rivals, this engine was equipped with L-head rather than overhead valves. It powered Burgess, Curtiss, Wright, and Sturtevant seaplanes, many of which were purchased by the U.S. government. It was also used in several privately-owned land planes. The artifact was removed from the Herring-Burgess aircraft that is in the museum’s collection.
Later, in 1915, the Sturtevant Aeroplane Co. was organized to build aircraft, and obviously used Sturtevant engines. The entire Sturtevant aviation venture was unsuccessful, ending after 1919.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Date
1912
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Manufacturer
Sturtevant Manufacturing Co.
Physical Description
Type: Reciprocating, Six cylinders, In-line, water-cooled
Power rating: 45 kW (60 hp) at 1,200 rpm
Displacement: 7.038 L (429.42 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke: 114 mm (4.5 in.) x 114 mm (4.5 in.)
Weight: 145 kg (320 lb)
Dimensions
3-D: 135 × 59 × 54cm, 145.2kg (53 1/8 × 23 1/4 × 21 1/4 in., 320lb.)
Support: 77.5 × 107 × 48cm (30 1/2 in. × 42 1/8 in. × 18 7/8 in.)
Materials
Metal
Inventory Number
A19610131001
Credit Line
Gift of Joseph Shoemaker
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Open Access (CCO)
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